A Distressing and Emotional Time for Our Nation

Dear Colleagues:

This past week has been a distressing and emotional time for our nation. We are deeply shaken by the tragic events that resulted in the deaths of two African-American men and five police officers, as well as by other recent acts of violence across the country.

We recognize that these national and world events have also had a serious and very personal impact on the lives of those who work for and study at Johns Hopkins. Many are understandably experiencing a range of emotions—from sorrow and frustration to anger, fear and helplessness. We recognize that these emotions will, and should, be shared with friends, family and co-workers. We also want to express our support for all members of the John Hopkins community who have been impacted—directly or indirectly—by these tragedies and assure you that support is available. The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program offers free and confidential counseling to our faculty and staff members. Additional help can be found through the Johns Hopkins Office of Diversity and Inclusion at 844-JHDVRSTY, the Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy team at 410-955-5842 or the American Counseling Association.

We asked for guidance on how to make our workplace and community more inclusive and equitable, and in the coming weeks, you will begin to hear our plans. Your input from town halls and task forces has been crucial and appreciated. Additionally, we are identifying speakers for this year's Race in America series who can help the Johns Hopkins community ensure that fear and ignorance do not override the necessity of respect and dignity.

Meaningful change requires the full and active engagement of all members of the Johns Hopkins Medicine community. We must continue to look inward as an institution and consciously take action to promote a culture of inclusivity and trust. Just as adequate health care is a universal human right, so too is the ability to feel safe in one's own skin. We encourage you to email your thoughts about diversity and inclusion to diversity@jhmi.edu.

Sincerely,

Paul B. Rothman, M.D.
Dean of the Medical Faculty
CEO, Johns Hopkins Medicine

Ronald R. Peterson
President, The Johns Hopkins Health System
EVP, Johns Hopkins Medicine